One of the most common questions we receive is: "How much money do I need to deposit to bring my car into China?" The answer depends on whether you work with a licensed travel agency or try to handle it yourself.
Two Types of Deposit Arrangements
- Full deposit (no agency): You deposit cash equal to approximately 50% of your vehicle's assessed value. For a $30,000 SUV, that's roughly ¥100,000–¥150,000 RMB locked up for the duration of your stay.
- Symbolic deposit (with licensed agency): You pay only ¥10,000 RMB. The agency provides a customs guarantee covering the rest. This is the standard and most cost-effective route.
Key takeaway: A licensed travel agency with a customs authorization can post a guarantee on your behalf, reducing your cash deposit from ~50% of car value to just ¥10,000. This is why choosing the right agency matters so much.
How the Customs Guarantee Works
When you temporarily import a vehicle into China, customs requires a guarantee that the car will not be sold or permanently left in the country. This guarantee can take two forms:
- Cash bond: You deposit the full amount in cash. It's returned when you exit with the vehicle.
- Agency guarantee: A licensed travel agency posts a bond with customs on your behalf. You pay the agency a small service fee plus a symbolic refundable deposit (¥10,000).
What Happens If the Agency Goes Out of Business?
Licensed travel agencies in China are required by law to deposit ¥1.6 million RMB with the Tourism Bureau as a quality guarantee fund. If an agency defaults on its obligations, clients can claim compensation from this fund. This is why it's critical to verify that your agency is properly licensed.
Refund Process
When you exit China with your vehicle, customs confirms the car has left the country. The guarantee is then released. With our agency, your ¥10,000 symbolic deposit is refunded within 7–14 working days after exit.
Common Scams to Avoid
- Companies asking for 50% of the vehicle value as a "deposit" — they're just taking your cash and keeping it.
- Personal account transfers — always pay to a corporate bank account in the agency's official name.
- "No refund until customs approves" delays — legitimate agencies process refunds promptly after exit.
- Companies that can't show their tourism bureau license number on request.
Ready to start? Contact us via WeChat (qxzj7557) or email ([email protected]) for a free quote. We'll tell you exactly what deposit and fees apply for your vehicle and itinerary.